Record-Breaking Finale for Ryan Nembhard
Ryan Nembhard finished his first NBA season with a standout performance, setting a new franchise record for rookie assists with the Dallas Mavericks. During the Mavericks’ 149-128 victory against the Chicago Bulls, he recorded an impressive 23 assists.
Breaking Franchise Records
Nembhard surpassed the previous rookie record held by his coach, Jason Kidd, who had tallied 17 assists in the 1994-95 season. While Nembhard achieved the franchise record for assists in a standard game, he fell just two short of Kidd’s all-time record of 25 assists from a double-overtime game in 1996. His 23 assists are also noted as a league record for undrafted rookies, as reported by MavsMuse.
Season Performance Overview
In addition to his 23 assists, Nembhard scored 15 points, shooting 6 of 11 from the field, and grabbed nine rebounds on that noteworthy Sunday. Dallas concluded the season with a record of 26-56.
Success for Former Gonzaga Players
On the last day of the NBA regular season, several former Gonzaga players delivered strong performances. Denver’s Julian Strawther, a third-year player, recorded a career-high 25 points in a 128-118 win against San Antonio, along with six rebounds and three assists.
Highlights from Other Games
Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura achieved his first double-double of the season, contributing 22 points and 10 rebounds in a 131-107 victory over Utah. He shot 8 of 12 from the field and made 3 of 5 from beyond the arc during the game.
Player Stats and Playoff Outlook
Teammate Drew Timme, the all-time leading scorer for Gonzaga, added three points and two assists in limited minutes. Meanwhile, Atlanta’s Corey Kispert scored 21 points in a 143-117 loss against Miami, bringing his season average to 9.2 points, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.6 assists.
Final Notes on Season Endings and Playoffs
Orlando’s Jalen Suggs recorded 23 points in a close 113-108 loss to Boston while gearing up for a play-in game after finishing as the No. 8 seed in the East. Oklahoma City’s All-Star Chet Holmgren sat out the season finale to recover from back tightness, having already secured the top seed in the Western Conference.
